Manville Public Library to join Somerset County Library System

When the doors open on Wednesday, Sept. 5, the Manville Public Library will be a fully functioning member of the Somerset County Library System (SCLS). Data conversion and staff training took place while the library closed for the last week in August. Manville will be completely integrated into the SCLS system, utilizing the same website and catalog, available online at sclsnj.org, along with other internal processes.
Patrons with a Manville library card will be able to borrow materials at all SCLS libraries, and use its extensive collection of eBooks, downloadable audiobooks and licensed data. SCLS library cards can now also be used to borrow materials directly from the Manville Public Library.
Positive changes to the library include a substantial increase in the budget for books and other materials. Patrons will also see new faces, as SCLS enhances the staffing levels to provide better coverage and more programming opportunities.
“We are delighted to serve the residents of Manville,” said Brian Auger, SCLS director. “The transition has been smooth and I believe the residents of Manville will immediately benefit through the access to all the services that SCLS offers to its patrons.”
Changes are being made in the hours of operation, also effective Wednesday, Sept. 5. The library will be open to the public Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. The library will not have Sunday hours, although Bridgewater and Hillsborough libraries are open on Sunday, once again starting on Sept. 9 from 1-5 p.m.
Some additional changes in the library’s operations include how donations will now be handled. Gifts of materials will be used for future book sales, as opposed to going into the collection, with proceeds to directly benefit Manville Public Library. Monetary gifts will now also be used for special projects at the library.
Patrons with further questions can call SCLS at 908-526-4016, ext. 128, Manville Public Library at 908-722-9722 or visit sclsnj.org. The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.